Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy bills and gain more control over your household spending? In the UK, time of use (ToU) tariffs are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among smart meter users and EV owners. ToU tariffs reward you for shifting electricity usage to off-peak hours when demand is lower and energy unit rates are cheaper. Understanding how these tariffs operate, and whether they suit your lifestyle, is essential before switching.
Take the stress out of finding the right tariff. With Fuse Energy, we'll help you choose the best option for your home; simple, clear, and tailored to you. Enjoy transparent pricing, real-time half-hourly usage data, 24/7 human customer support, and a modern energy experience designed around you. Switch to Fuse Energy today in as little as 3 minutes.
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A quick checklist to see if a ToU tariff is right for you
- Do you have a smart meter installed?
- Do you own (or plan to get) an EV?
- Can you shift usage to off-peak hours?
- Are you comfortable changing your energy habits?
- Do you want more control over your energy bills?
A ToU tariff is a pricing structure where electricity costs vary depending on the time of day.
Instead of a flat rate, you typically get:
- Peak rates (higher cost during peak times)
- Off-peak rates (lower cost during low demand times)
This model helps balance the grid and can reduce your energy costs if used effectively.
Peak vs off-peak pricing
Electricity is more expensive for suppliers when demand is high, typically weekday evenings. It's cheaper overnight and during low-demand periods. ToU tariffs incentivise shifting usage to off-peak times, reducing your bill without necessarily reducing total consumption. All Fuse Energy tariff rates (unit rates and standing charges) are quoted inclusive of VAT at 5%, ensuring full transparency.
Why a smart meter isn't essential
A smart meter records your usage in half-hourly intervals, allowing accurate billing based on when energy is used. However, some traditional non-smart meters can also record off-peak and peak usage separately in different registers if they are compatible with dual-rate tariffs. However, to get the most out of your ToU tariff and gain access to EV tariffs, a connected smart meter is required.
ToU tariffs can offer strong savings, but only if your usage patterns align.
Ideal for EV owners
For EV owners, these tariffs are especially effective. Charging overnight at off-peak rates can significantly reduce EV running costs compared to single-rate tariffs. Fuse Energy EV tariffs are designed to optimise this automatically with off-peak rates between 12am and 5am that apply to the entire household. You can get a quote for our tariffs including the EV tariff here.
How to maximise savings
You can reduce costs by shifting usage actively by:
- Running washing machines and dishwashers overnight.
- Charge devices during off-peak hours.
- Schedule EV charging overnight.
- Use timers for appliances.
What to look for when comparing ToU tariffs
Always consider peak and off-peak unit rates, standing charges, total annual costs based on your usage, contract terms and exit fees, and smart meter compatibility.
Managing your energy tariff should be clear and easy to understand. Fuse Energy focuses on straightforward pricing, so you can see exactly what you're paying without unnecessary complexity. With some of the lowest rates on the market, our tariffs make an attractive choice for bill-payers in the UK. If you have a smart meter, you can also view detailed usage data through the app or website, helping you understand how your tariff translates into actual costs. This can make it easier to track spending and make informed decisions about your energy use. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times of under 5 minutes whenever you need help. Switch to Fuse Energy in as little as 3 minutes and find out about our mission.
Do time of use tariffs save money?
They can, especially if you shift usage to off-peak times. Savings depend on your habits which your supplier can advise you of.
Do I need a smart meter?
Not always. If you have a traditional non-smart meter that is capable of recording off-peak and peak usage, then you would be eligible to switch to a ToU tariff. Contact your supplier to confirm this.
How can I switch to Fuse Energy?
Switching to Fuse Energy and accessing our tariffs is simple and can be done in as little as 3 minutes by completing the online onboarding process here.
Disclaimer
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising from reliance on this information.
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